South Africa sealed a tense four-wicket victory over Bangladesh at Lord’s on Sunday to keep the pressure on India in the race for a Women’s T20 World Cup semi-final spot. Chasing a modest target of 118, the Proteas were made to work hard before getting over the line with four balls to spare in their final Group A match.
The result means South Africa will face unbeaten hosts England in the semi-finals unless India beat Australia later on Sunday.
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However, the stuttering chase raised fresh questions about South Africa’s ability to handle pressure, despite earlier victories over India and the Netherlands, including a commanding total of 208/1 against the latter.
South Africa‘s
chase got off to the worst possible start when captain Laura Wolvaardt was bowled by Marufa Aktar’s inswinging first delivery. Dane van Niekerk then fell lbw for three, leaving the Proteas at 59/3 at the halfway mark.
Annerie Dercksen appeared set to guide South Africa home with a composed 45 before edging behind in the 15th over. Her dismissal triggered another wobble as the scoring dried up.
Marizanne Kapp was run out for 16, while Nadine de Klerk was caught at deep mid-wicket with five runs still required. Chloe Tryon eventually ended Bangladesh’s resistance, edging a boundary before driving through the off side to seal victory with four balls remaining.
South Africa’s fielding effort, however, was clinical from the outset. Kapp struck with the very first ball of the match, bowling Juairiya Ferdous.
Sobhana Mostary top-scored for Bangladesh with 42, while captain Nigar Sultana remained unbeaten on 32. Despite their efforts, Bangladesh were restricted to 117/5 from their 20 overs.
With AFP Inputs
